Hobart Statesmen Aid Happiness House

The Hobart College football team hosted its annual Touchdowns and Tackles for Happiness House game on Saturday, Oct. 26, when the Statesmen took on Rensselaer.

Members of the team asked local businesses and fans to donate $1 for every tackle Hobart made and $7 for every touchdown the Statesmen scored to Happiness House. Interested contributors also pledged a flat rate. Additionally, Hobart Athletics donated the day's proceeds from ticket sales to Happiness House. While they are still receiving donations, the Statemen have currently raised more than $13,000 for the non-profit agency.

On Thursday, Oct. 24, Hobart football players visited Happiness House on Pre-Emption Road in Geneva, reading to the students and playing games.

Happiness House branches span across Ontario, Seneca, Yates, and Wayne counties. Established in 1969, the nonprofit educational, health, and human services agency has developed programs and services for children and adults that address developmental disabilities and syndromes. On average, the organization serves more than 1,000 children, adults and their families each year.

The Touchdowns and Tackles fundraiser was started in 2010 by offensive lineman Jarrid Blades '12. This year's initiative was led by senior captain Michael Green, also an offensive lineman.

"This is a great event started four years ago by Jarrid Blades, and I'm excited to have led it year," Green said. "I chose to take the lead on this event because I wanted to help make a difference in these children's lives and provide Happiness House with a large donation to help with their initiative."

The Wakley family of Geneva represented Happiness House families, and assisted with the pregame coin toss. Laura and Chris' son, Graham, attends Happiness House.

To learn more about Touchdowns and Tackles for Happiness House or to make a pledge, contact the Hobart Athletic Department at (315) 781-3565 or Michael Green at michael.green@hws.edu.